Plowshares Coffee Roasters

This is a go-to place for coffee and a cozy space to work on whatever you are doing. I like the space a lot and they serve pastries from a super delicious bakery which is one of my favorites in lower east side. Cappuccino was decent, although not super creamy. The beans they used were on the mid-dark roasted side, slightly bitter.

This place has had the BEST coffee-responsibly sourced- expertly prepared for years. But today we tried a creation of theirs called a Breakfast Piadina: MIND BLOWN! A fresh-baked delicate Italian flatbread folded over egg, arugula, house-made picked onion with avocado, a little cheese. Worth a trip from afar! There are also beautiful croissant-based pastries. And the owners wonderful community-minded folks. Spacious, bright atmosphere- the best place on this island!

Beautiful coffee shop in Harlem. 😍 - perhaps one of my favorite coffee shops in NYC. I’ve been here twice but always satisfied with my cappuccino or latte. I went here last Saturday (images) and it was a rainy day. I was a bit disappointed that I wasn’t asked if I would have my coffee inside or to go, so my beverage was served on a carton cup. But other than that, as an avid coffee drinker, I’m a fan.

I really loved studying at this place, but the staff is so rude/unreasonable that it's not worth it. They add so much ice to their iced drinks (more than half the cup) that by the time you get home, especially now that it's summer, the drink is watery/doesn't taste good. I politely asked them to do light ice and they gave me significantly less coffee. I thought it was a mistake so I didn't say anything, but the third time it happened, the empty space in the cup (that I paid over $5.00 for) was so significant that I asked if they could add a splash of milk. The guy smugly refused and went on about how they put exactly 4 oz of ice in their cups and the amount of liquid was the same. I go there, i.e., spend money there, almost every single day--the fact that they're so stingy about *milk* is so bizarre. I want to support local, but this place does not care about it's customers. There's such a good opportunity here to build a community space, but they clearly just don't care. So disappointing. For context, this is the drink they gave me. Update: even if I accept the explanation from the business, the core issue was the rudeness/condescension with which the guy at the counter communicated. This is not the first time it's happened either (and based on other reviews, I'm not the only person to have this experience). I'd rather spend my money at a coffee shop that's kind to its customers and makes people feel welcome rather than like inconveniences.

This place is beautiful. The music is great and it’s crowded but not loud. It’s also really cool to be able to see how they roast the coffee.

A beautiful place to work, with many outlets, seat cushions, various seating arrangements, self-serve water, TWO restrooms, that has an amazing free monthly Open mic too! (Definitely sign up for their newsletter — it was the first good thing that ever came out of my spam inbox!) Drink prices are very reasonable to me. I think they serve some soups and pretzels for food; have not had myself yet. My iced chai latte served in a real glass was life-giving on a horribly humid day. They have some beer/ales and one on tap. Day pictures are from a grateful Sunday afternoon where many people were working alongside me with laptops, and it was very quiet, spacious, and filled with natural light. Including one picture of the Open Mic where my partner and I stayed for an amazing show until 10pm on a summer Fri night. With prices so reasonable, I would really love for this cafe to thrive. Please come here. Note: Hours differ depending on the weekday!

Cool vibes here, roasting set up and exposed brickwork interior make for a nice cafe to spend some time, chill or work. The coffee is good, I had an 8.0 cortado, slightly too over roasted and bitter but the was at least some good flavour coming through. Quite a strong cup which was great.

Strawberry cheesecake pastry changed my life. The latte was okay, the coffee is too acidic for my liking, but milk was steamed to perfection and the pastry was so good it changed my life. It was everything you have ever wanted a pastry to be. Buttery and flaky puff pastry but the filling was rich and fruity and tart and creaming and perfectly balanced the puff pastry. You know when you get a chocolate croissant and it’s way too much croissant relative to the amount of chocolate hoped for? This strawberry cheesecake pastry put those pastries to shame. One less star for vibes because I was going there to do work for 2-2.5 hrs but their WiFi policy makes you feel like a nuisance for sticking around even after spending over $15 on coffee and one pastry, even with empty seats. I don’t like overstaying a welcome so places can get business, but I still felt like it was a bit extreme. So if you need to do work there, plan to spend less than an hour and a half.

Hands down my favorite coffee spot on the Upper West Side. From the moment you step inside, you're greeted by a warm, inviting atmosphere--plants and wood tones everywhere, perfect place to settle in with a book or get some work done. The coffee? Delicious. I love that I can grab my beans here to brew at home. They roast in-house and they are more than happy to nerd out about their suppliers and process (if you're into that kind of thing). The pastry selection is also fantastic--always delicious. But what truly sets Plowshares apart is the community it fosters. The owner, Anthony, is incredibly welcoming, especially to students and those looking for a cozy place to study. He has an awesome story about how he started this coffee business, and you can tell he's passionate about what he does. PS--WiFi is offered for free but is limited for 2 hours a sesh. 5/5 highly recommend

EXCELLENT SERVICE ! My wife and I were more than happy with our first visit here a few days ago. On Wed, Sept 11th we were now into the 2nd week of our 2 week vacation in New York, NY....lots more to do and see. After breakfast at our apartment in Upper Manhattan my wife suggested we walk down here for cappuccinos...and a super delicious almond croissant. SO WE DID ! After walking almost a mile along cruddy Amsterdam Ave in the downtrodden Uptown neighborhood we arrived at Plowshares around 10am. A friendly cashier / barista named Noah greeted us warmly and said he would be with us soon. OF COURSE ! The usual mob of laptoppers had control of almost every table in the place but we did nab a couple of spots at a community table. My wife had made it clear to me she wanted an almond croissant whether I wanted to share or not...in need of a sugar hit. OH NO ! I looked at the display case where they kept their small assortment of light pastries and NO ALMOND CROISSANTS ! We went ahead and ordered 2 x double shot Cappuccinos with 2% milk. BUGGER ! Still in shock that they were completely out of their sensational almond croissants from Petit Chou in the East Village I had to ask Noah why ? A dude came in earlier and cleaned them out. OH WELL ! Noah placed our beautiful looking Cappuccinos on the service counter...I complimented him on his good work but he humbly deferred to Malcom the barista on our first visit. We sat down at our table and totally enjoyed our rich creamy cappuccinos. It's a nice looking coffee shop, great coffee, talented baristas but the hordes of laptoppers puts a big dent in my comfort level. NEXT STOP ! We headed to the subway for a ride to Yankee Stadium in The Bronx ! NOTE - Of course with 20 million views of my Yelp reviews and pics world in 2023 I can tell what is great !

We were in New York and meeting up with a friend in Harlem so we popped in here for a coffee. It was later in the afternoon so their pastry box was almost empty but I got a filled cruffin type of pastry and a pour over. Great coffee and the pastry was delicious! Unsure if they make it in house or it's from an outside bakery though. Nice space and chill atmosphere. It's near the university so there were lots of students working away in their laptops but it was a great spot to sit and catch up with a friend.

Good spot for coffee and sandwich. More spacious and comfortable than many of the other cafes in this neighborhood.

I came with a friend for coffee around 2pm on a Sunday and was very happy with the experience. Even though I have been in this area a lot, I had never heard of Plowshares Coffee until now. The coffeeshop is tucked into one of the side streets off of 125th which can be a pretty chaotic area so this is like a quiet haven. The space is very large and has a really cozy/intimate feel which I really liked. My friend got a tea and I got a cappuccino. They do have some pastries and sandwiches which we did not try this time around but looked very good. The service was so friendly and quick, I really appreciated the genuine warmth of the place that didn't feel over the top or artificial. There is plenty of seating inside and just is a good place to hangout with a friend, come on a date, or do some work by yourself. My cappuccino was very delicious and the prices felt reasonable compared to what other NYC coffee shops charge. Definitely a huge fan of this spot! Will be coming back in the future.

I came here for breakfast and it was good. I ordered a breakfast taco and it was ok, the BEC. The person who was working there was very nice and friendly. I also ordered an iced chai latte. The taco was ok, I don't think I would order it again. The iced chai latte was good and I would order it again with less ice. The place is nice and big and I would recommend this place.

Coffee, food, service and ambiance. WIFi was dependable. It's becoming my go-to in Harlem. Nice vibe

Great coffee made with love and tasty treats with a fantastic staff! It's also really cute inside, perfect for WFH while grabbing a coffee. It can get busy inside at the tables. But that is because of the quality in everything here.

I really wanted a chai latte and I pass Plowshares everyday on my way to pick up my child from school. So I decided to stop in. It is a very spacious coffee shop. I had no idea it was that spacious. The ambiance is very chill. Love that they have plants and a rustic type of decor. There was only one person in front of me on line. So it went quickly. The barista was nice. I love when people smile! I ordered the chai. It was perfect. The milk was foamy and the chai was not too spicy or bitter. Definitely a great pick me up. I thought the prices were reasonable compared to other coffee shops.

Cute little cafe with bright lighting and lots of seats. Free wifi and numerous outlets makes it a good spot to do work. Dropped by for a quick breakfast hang with some friends. Arriving right when they opened at 8 am, I got a regular coffee + some pastries. The pastries were good and I believe sourced from somewhere (I didn't quite catch where), but nothing to-die-for. The coffee was solid and reasonably priced. By 9 am when we left, the place had filled up with lots of folks working on laptops. There were a couple of spots still left, but if you want prime seating you should definitely aim to arrive on the earlier side.

great space. great location. BAD service. it was my first time. I waited for the other 2 customers to be served. I then looked to place my order asking (what I believe is the owner) questions about what the different pastry and food options were (because there are NO signs). He proceeded to ask the customer behind me what he wanted, while I was asking him and about to place my order. Now there were 2 cranberry scones left and I was ordering for myself and my partner. The customer behind me said he wanted one of the cran scones and my partner (who was on the phone) had determined she also wanted a cran scone. So I said to the owner "what if I want both those scones? how are you going to take his order while I am asking you questions and trying to place mine?" just an overall terrible service experience!

February 2023: Nice and spacious coffeeshop in Harlem nearby the 1 and A/C trains. The ambience is casual, low-key and modern with wooden furnishings around. They roast their own beans in the back of the cafe. It seems like there are a lot of local residents that situate themselves here from surrounding universities and hospitals. During my time there, the service was quick with one barista working. They have a variety of drinks and some pastries. Wifi and outlets are available for working as most people were there doing their business on laptops as well as a few friendly conversations during the morning-noon hours of the weekday. There are several private bathrooms although a bit unkempt. The coffee was fresh and worth the price. Overall, I liked the feeling of the coffee shop. If ever in Harlem and in need of caffeine, this is a place to check out. Accepts cash, card and Applepay. Bathrooms available. Wifi and outlets available. Indoor and take out. Drink up!

Nice coffee shop. Has lots of sitting available inside but unfortunately gets very busy, so you might not be able to get a seat regardless. I got the scone which was absolutely delicious and an almond latte which was good too. Barista was nice. Good place overall, especially if you don't come during peak hours.

Absolutely loved my visit here. I wanted a place to sit down, enjoy a nice cup of coffee and get some work done and I think I may have found my favorite spot near Manhattanville. I came in around 10 in the morning (I think this is like semi-peak hours). There was plenty of space for someone to sit down, many outlets and reliable wifi. I ordered one chai latte, and thought the spice balance was very solid. The service was nice and made it with skim milk (likely there would be art if I used regular). There croissant also tasted solid. Overall a great sit down and work cafe. They also have this cool room where you can see them make the coffee in house. Will be stopping by here again to get some work done. Good wifi, good seating space, outlets, wonderful clean vibe, and great coffee. All you need.

Still love this place. I really like the vibe. I feel like I can get work done in here. Everyone looks a determined and studious, it's encouraging. Food: I finally tried a pastry. I got their Apple pudding muffin and it was "Aight". It didn't taste much cinnamon or spices like I would expect for something apple, but I found a slice of Apple towards the bottom of the muffin which was cool. Lol Drinks: Whether hot or iced their Masala chai is my favorite in this area. Also, I do want to add the new cashier the tall one. He miscounted my change and I didn't notice until afterwards sitting at the table. It was short three dollars. I didn't see the receipt immediately or hear the total properly, by the time I did review the receipt (7.25- I gave him a $20 bill, received $9 and tipped $2 afterwards) I let it be because I didn't want to cause a scene. Warning to everyone, pay with card or count your change and be more vocal at the register than I am. Lol I just trusted it was correct.

This is an excellent cafe with great pastries, delicious drinks, lots of seating, wifi, and outlets! Pleasant cafe music playing throughout and the vibe is generally quiet and peaceful. They'll warm up any pastry you order if you ask. I had the chocolate pistachio danish and it was wonderfully flaky with a chewy inner dough. Wish I tasted more pistachio but there was definitely plenty of chocolate.

The ambience here is great - lots of seating, beautiful interior, and a backroom where folks roast beans before your eyes. I can't speak to the coffee or whether the price is justified - items here are a bit expensive, though that's life in New York these days. My iced tea was certainly overpriced for what it is, but it was OK since I just wanted to sit and get some work done. There's wifi and a bathroom, and the atmosphere is a calming bubble away from the usually hectic 125th street just a block away.

Usually the coffee here is good but last time i came, i ordered a cappuccino and it was terrible. i'm pretty sure the person who made it (possibly the owner, im not sure .. it was an older white male) waited too long to pour the milk into the espresso. it wasn't busy at all, i was only person who ordered, but instead of just making my drink, he kept preparing for the next order. unnecessary because there was no one behind me. for a $5 beverage to just taste bitter when it's supposed to be rich and creamy was upsetting. subpar customer service. to be fair i never had issues with the other barista which is a younger black man but this latest experience was extremely disappointing. you're much better off going to dear mama a couple blocks away.

This gem of a coffee spot has been a pleasure to hit up whenever I'm looking to get some work done while enjoying some delicious coffee. Stumbled upon this location while in the area and looking for a spot to work for a bit with a friend. After my first visit I was a fan and have been back a few times to get some work done while likeminded individuals are doing the same. A specious layout with many various tables to sit and work or just converse with friends. It's usually pretty quiet which makes for a great environment. The employees are super friendly and attentive. I really dig this spot and highly recommend it.

Very quiet shop with lots of seating. Great espresso. Quick service. Soft jazz music is playing.

I really like Plowshares. This location is so big and so nice. Pastries and the chai latte were great, just how I like them. The music playing is calming. Overall a nice place to hang out with a nice drink. Absolutely go and support this place

Spacious, and great wifi. The only challenge is the owner isn't very hospitable to people. I asked him to heat up a scone after I found it was freezing cold on the inside and only after I discovered this, he said he couldn't do anything. Don't want to give a rating this low, but it matters.

Plowshares is my go to coffee shop! Great espresso drinks, spacious seating, a restroom, wifi, and friendly baristas -- it checks all the boxes!

The coffee is the best in the area that I have tried. The drip is dark roast without being overly bitter or burnt with interesting flavor. The service is polite and definitely hard working with the rushes that can arrive. The price is a little expensive, but typical when it comes to coffee in this neighborhood.

They make great cappuccinos and have a nice selection of pastries. The interior is nice and spacious too. Very chill.

This is a great spot in Harlem. I love the ambiance. They allow dine in customers and ask for proof of vaccination plus ID. The cortado was not bad but I'll stick to my flat whites next time.

This place plowed its way into my heart, you won't want to share. I got an oat latte and a croissant, both were fantastic. The espresso was light and rich, which complemented the oat milk well. Would definitely recommend popping in here if you're in the area.

Very cool space and delicious coffee - we had an iced americano and a vanilla oatmilk latte and we were both quite happy with our drinks!

Good coffee! Nice, spacious cafe. Baristas are super nice and friendly. You can bring your laptop here and work/study -- it's quiet and they play good, low music. Kinda pricey though -- small fig jam and goat cheese sandwich (which I gotta say was pretty tasty and fresh) and a large latte was about $12 but that's the price you pay for gentrification in Harlem ‍

Fresh croissant and a pick me up cortado ! Just what is needed in this area . Amazing abs spacious interior .. lots of space and 2 restrooms too :) will definitely revisit and try their other items . Very welcoming space

Very nice work space. I go here whenever I need a change of pace to study or work on my projects. a nice little escape from the hustle and bustle of Harlem. The croissants and bagels make for a great work snack.

One weekend day I was laying around, feeling sick and overwhelmed. But then I remembered I'd been wanting to come here since I moved, due to loving local coffee shops. So I pulled myself together and walked up here, and I was happy I did! The interior is so peaceful and really a breath of fresh air (literally since there are plants all around you). The lighting is warm, the people working or chatting are chill, and the staff was friendly. They have smart procedures in place to maintain a quality experience, such as using a pin from your receipt to access both the wifi and the restroom. I like this process, I feel it ensures a good experience for customers and maintains a good business operation for them. I had an oat mocha, which is now my favorite one in this neighborhood. So, hallelujah! Finally. First fave since I moved here, and I am a happy gal!!!! I will be back for my studying and coffee. A+

overpriced coffee and stale day old pastries anyone? if so this is your place otherwise keep it moving coffee shops are a dime a dozen in this area. Also doesn't help the cashier was so dang stank, too early for the sour vibes & subpar attitude. Make your employees take a customer service workshop (who knows maybe someone will let his stank self drop during the trust fall)- lmaooooooo

Great place to go and find peace from the fuss and rush of city life. Coffee is excellent.

Plowshares has great coffee and a quiet, relaxing ambiance. I ordered a latte both times I visited. They have a nice selection of pastries - I tried the almond croissant one time and the pain au chocolat the next. There are also bagels and spreads available. This is a perfect cafe for quiet conversation, reading, and hanging out. You can enjoy this place with friends or in quiet contemplation. I visited early (9:00 a.m.) both visits, and it was nice to hear classical guitar music on the speakers one day and Mozart the next. Unobtrusive and pleasant. The space has an open and airy quality to it with plenty of windows looking out onto Amsterdam. I look forward to returning here.

I hit up this place every Thursday and I haven't even disappointed yet. I have a hard time starting from my usual latte and Belgian waffle because both are just so good and classic. It's quite difficult to find coffee shops in manhattan that are clean, quality, and have plenty of room but Plowshares satisfies all those desires I have for a 5/5 coffee shop.

Great coffee, fast wifi, decent service. Downside is it is definitely alienating many locals and I couldn't see any efforts at outreach to the community

Really quality coffee and beautiful space! Espresso had a lovely flavor so you could actually taste the coffee. Interior was wide, spacious and light, perfect for working.

I really like this cafe to do my homework. There are always seats (10am-2pm probably the busiest), coffee is good, and staffs are always friendly.

I've visited this coffee shop a couple of times. The coffee is delicious. The inside is very spacious; with a loft-like appeal. Adjacent to the seating area is another large space where they roast and grind their own coffee; which makes for a great spectacle and unique coffee shop experience. Despite the surrounding area, the coffee shop itself is pretty chill and clean. Great spot to hang out or zone out, if you want to get work done.

Delicious coffee and fresh baked good and a beautiful and sunny plant-filled hang out.

Excellent coffee and service. Very nice shop. Anthony, the owner was extremely polite.

Plowshares Coffee Roasters is truly rather special. Very cute spot with great prices and good menu options. Every single thing I've tried thus far is fantastic. The staff are super attentive and nice and they're great at giving recommendations. But, seriously. Plowshares Coffee Roasters - Really, really good..

Are they sourcing beans from the same place as Irving Farm? There are similar flavor notes, ergo it's a decent coffee. The cold brew is strong, chocolatey and smooth. I've also had a medium drip, which I did not like as it was very acidic and sharp (and I ended up adding sugar to) and a dark roast which was better. I'm not certain if they just don't offer light roasts or this barista doesn't want to do a pour over, but it is my preferred brew and I've yet to have one from here. The prices are exorbitant, but there are so few coffee spots this far up in West Harlem and the space is huge, you have to make rent somehow. Has a few snack options, though nothing I've tried. I will say the barista who has been the person serving me the 3 times I've been there, needs an attitude check.

Great coffee, tranquil setting, wifi, lots of charging outlets, bean roasting on display...what's not to love.

Very spacious. Very modern. I had the iced coffee. It was delicious. Free WiFi. Very relaxing and aesthetic spot to enjoy a cup of joe.

Excellent coffee and great venue. Staff are helpful, friendly, and know there way around the espresso machine. Plenty of seating and outlets for getting work done although WiFi is only good for 2 hours. Had a double shot of espresso and a cappuccino and both were high quality. Bag of Kenyan single-origin I got was also excellent. I only wish they were open longer and that they served sparkling water with the espresso.

The baristas were sooo nice and they serve Dona chai from Brooklyn!!! I went to their UWS location on an early Saturday evening and it was not busy, naturally. It's a good spot for a good cup of joe, and a good select few treats.

Excellent coffee at a very cool and relaxing space. I love the teddy bear cookies! They have lots of plants for sale as well. Very friendly service, highly recommended!